Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons butter (for chicken)

2 tablespoons honey

3 cloves garlic, minced (divided)

1 teaspoon salt (divided)

½ teaspoon black pepper (divided)

250g fettuccine pasta

2 tablespoons butter (for Alfredo sauce)

1 ½ cups heavy cream

1 cup grated parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Extra parmesan cheese (optional garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Step 3: Add 3 cloves minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in honey and let it caramelize slightly for 1–2 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add remaining minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with remaining ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.

Step 6: Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 7: Return the honey butter chicken to the skillet and mix gently to combine everything well.

Step 8: Plate the pasta and top with extra parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh parmesan for a smoother, more flavorful sauce.

Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.

Adjust the amount of honey to control the sweetness.

Reserve pasta water to perfect the sauce consistency.

Add chili flakes for a sweet-spicy kick.

Double the garlic if you love a stronger garlic flavor.

Try half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

Incorporate broccoli or spinach to add freshness and color.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of fettuccine?

Yes, you can use other types of pasta like penne, linguine, or spaghetti based on your preference. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

You can substitute the butter and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives such as vegan butter and coconut cream, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly.